Elucidating the Genetic Variability in M2 Generation of Foxtail Millet [Setaria italica (L.)] Genotype for Growth and Yield-related Traits Through Chemical Mutation

Background: Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) is a valuable cereal crop with potential for yield enhancement through induced mutagenesis. Creating genetic variability is a crucial step in crop improvement and chemical mutagens like ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) have proven effective in generating useful mutations. This study was designed to explore the extent of genetic variability induced in the M2 generation of foxtail millet using EMS, with a particular focus on key agronomic traits that influence yield and adaptability. Methods: The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with EMS treatments at concentrations ranging from 0.2% to 0.9%. The M‚ population was evaluated for agronomic traits including days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of productive tillers, flag leaf length and breadth, panicle length and 1000-grain weight. Data collected were analyzed for heritability and genetic advance to assess the effectiveness of each EMS treatment in inducing useful variability. Results: Among the EMS treatments, T5 exhibited the most promising results, showing superior performance in plant height, number of tillers, flag leaf length, panicle length and 1000-grain weight. This treatment also demonstrated the highest heritability and genetic advance, indicating strong genetic control over these traits and the potential for effective selection. T6 was more influential in altering flowering traits. The results confirm that EMS is an effective mutagen for creating desirable variability, providing a valuable genetic base for breeding programs aimed at improving the yield and adaptability of foxtail millet.